We’ve been spending a lot of time in electric vehicles like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. But the Ioniq 5 is the option that stands out the most because it does things differently. See how the Hyundai Ioniq 5 changes the game. 

Six features make the Hyundai Ioniq 5 the best SUV 

We spent a week with the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited with all-wheel drive, and we wish it wasn’t over. Learning everything we could about the Ioniq 5 versus competitors was an eye-opening experience. 

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts off at $39,950, and we may have been spoiled by the Limited trim that takes the price up to $51,000. It’s still cheaper than other top-spec electric SUVs. 

Going for the Limited trim adds 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, a sliding center console, a head-up display, a 360-degree surround-view camera, a two-way charging system, extra safety features, and an automated parking system. 

1. The door handles are perfect

It’s a popular trend for electric vehicles to have hidden door handles that you sort of poke at. They can be confusing, especially when they’re body colored. But the Hyundai Ioniq 5 does things differently. 

When the vehicle is unlocked, or you approach it, the door handles automatically pop out. You can instantly see where they are and access the cabin. The Kia EV6 would be improved by using a similar setup. 

2. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is comfortable 

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets comfort right. The seats are large and well-padded for hours of support. They can fit people of all shapes and sizes with plenty of power-adjustment controls (with the Limited trim, at least). 

It has a smooth ride over rough surfaces and keeps road and wind noise at bay for a peaceful ride. The heated and ventilated seats are strong and effective. It’s available with a heat pump, that’s stronger than a traditional heating system.  

Plus, the dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy. The front seats have a built-in footrest that you can use to relax. The seats recline pretty far, creating the optimal place to nap. 

Also, the rear seats are well-padded too. They’re just as comfortable as the front seats with a relaxed back angle rest. Two adults can fit comfortably back there with the ability to stretch out. 

3. The Ioniq 5 gets charging tech right 

You push on a door by the rear taillights to access the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s charging port. At first, we didn’t like how it was at the rear instead of the front, but the charging cables are long enough to reach. 

Once you plug the charger, a voice says, “Charging session initiated.” There’s no guesswork involved, and you can confidently walk away. 

Plus, the charging port has five rows that show you how much the Ioniq 5 has charged. You can see it from inside your home and across the parking lot. You don’t have to pull out your phone, access an app, or sit in the vehicle to get a charging update. 

4. The 2022 Ioniq 5 is spacious 

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 has made the most of its cargo space. It has a center console that can slide back and forth as needed. Plus, it has a massive cargo cubby between the front seats that’s open and easy to access. It can fit book bags and more. 

You will find plenty of storage trays and bins around the cabin for your items. The wireless phone charging pad is in a convenient spot, and the door pockets are pretty wide. Tons of cup holders are available too. 

The doors open wide for easy access, and the rear hatch is pretty spacious. It has a low lift-over height to make loading heavy, awkward items easier. Also, the rear seats fold flat. 

You can access up to 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 59.3 cubes total. It’s bigger than you think. 

5. The Ioniq 5 has an excellent layout 

We’re impressed by how well the controls in the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 are laid out. Everything is easily within reach and clearly labeled. You can access specific menus in seconds and don’t have to rely on a touchscreen. 

Also, the driving modes and regenerative braking modes are conveniently located on the steering wheel. You don’t have to look at the dashboard or around the center console to change the driving mode or regenerative braking level. 

The infotainment display shows you where the closest EV charging station is, and the digital gauge cluster provides eco-friendly coaching. 

6. The 2022 Ioniq 5 has good vibes 

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 will make you smile. It provides excellent vibes as a peaceful and relaxing vehicle. However, the ergonomic seats, unique retro look, and modern tech offer a positive and adventurous feeling. 

The ambient lighting circles the speakers and spans the dash, the Bose audio system is immersive, the infotainment graphics are attractive, and the ride is confident. 

You can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.7 seconds! The tires provide plenty of grip around curves as body roll is kept at bay. Plus, the brakes are strong and predictable. 

Put it in Sport Mode to make your daily commute a little spicer or Normal Mode to relax on the way home. The Ioniq 5 caters to your personal driving moods to provide an optimal experience.